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  • You DON’T Need Bathroom Sink Filters, Just Use This!

    You DON’T Need Bathroom Sink Filters, Just Use This!

    Water filters have gained popularity as awareness of the chlorine and impurities found in tap water grows. Over the years we have collectively learned that, whether for health or taste, these impurities are something nearly everyone would rather filter out of their drinking water. Now, the real question is, if we’re treating our insides like VIPs, shouldn’t our skin get the star treatment, too? The answer is yes! The quality of tap water can certainly affect people’s skin for the worst, so it’s best that we don’t let it linger. However, when it comes to finding a solution, you may be seeing a trend of fancy bathroom sink filters popping up online but I can tell you, these are not the most efficient way to keep skin clear of impurities. 

    An easier, tried-and-true option is a toner (an alcohol-free toner, to be exact). Here’s why!

    How Do Bathroom Sink Filters Compare To Toners?

    When you use a toner after cleansing, the process of wiping it across the skin, ideally with a toning cloth, helps to remove any impurities left over from your tap water. Not only are toners great for this, but they also provide various other benefits that sink filters can’t. Let’s run through the claimed benefits of bathroom sink filters and how they compare to your favorite toners.

    Sink Filters CAN Remove Tap Water Impurities

    We’ll start with the bathroom sink filter’s main claim: removing all of the chlorine, salts, and minerals that are put into tap water to make it safe for drinking and bathing. The reason we want to remove these is because they can be very harsh on the skin’s surface layers. If you’ve ever had to wipe off that cloudy white stuff from your shower doors, then you’ve seen exactly what tap water leaves behind on the skin: minerals, like calcium and magnesium. Now, do bathroom sink filters eliminate these impurities? Sure! But so do toners.

    Sink Filters CAN Increase Hydration

    If you struggle with dry skin, then adding a bathroom sink filter could be beneficial. Since unfiltered tap water raises the pH of your skin to an alkaline state, it has an undesirable drying effect on the skin. So, using filtered water (or once again, a toner) can keep your pH balanced and your skin hydrated. 

    Sink Filters CAN Smooth Texture

    Regarding bumpy skin texture caused by eczema, I have some clients who switched to filtered water who claim it helped. This likely circles back to the pH of tap water being higher than the skin’s natural pH (skin is around 5.5 while tap water is 6.5+). It’s for this same reason I recommend everyone use cleansers that are pH-balanced. If you struggle with eczema or reactive or sensitive skin, focusing on balancing your skin’s pH (whether through filtered water or toners) can be extremely beneficial. 

    Sink Filters WILL NOT Reduce Breakouts

    Here’s where the claims start to get a bit shaky. Let me tell you, there have been millions and millions of dollars put into trying to cure acne and if it was as simple as putting a filter on our bathroom sinks then I can assure you we would’ve discovered that a long time ago. 

    When it comes to breakouts, clogged pores come from within. Breakouts occur when the skin produces an excess amount of oil that gets trapped and clogged in the pores. Tap water is not going to change the amount of oil your skin produces. Also, acne is due to hormones, and splashing water on your face has no direct correlation. Toners like Balancing Skin Tonic would be more beneficial for breakout-prone skin as a way to normalize oil production and clear blemishes without drying out the skin. 

    Make sure you’re not making one of these five acne mistakes!

    Sink Filters WILL NOT Prevent Premature Aging

    Causes of premature aging include sun exposure and smoking, but tap water? That’s not putting any wear and tear on your skin. Attributing premature aging to tap water seems far-fetched and this fear-inducing claim may be more rooted in marketing strategies than scientific evidence. If you’re looking for anti-aging benefits, Elderberry Soothing Toner is great for delivering antioxidants deep within the skin.

    Sink Filters WILL NOT Minimize Damage From Microplastics

    Some bathroom sink filter brands claim that using a filter prevents microabrasion and damage caused by microplastics in water. They make it sound like pieces of plastic have broken off and are deeply scarring the skin. This is just another marketing tactic to cause panic and grab your attention, but ultimately nothing you need to worry about.

    So there you have it! Sink filters can provide a few benefits to your skincare routine, such as increased hydration and a balanced pH, but if you’re already using a toner then these aren’t things you need to worry about– plus your toner is providing you with so much more! Depending on your choice of toner, you can also provide your skin with soothing ingredients, stimulating ingredients, exfoliating ingredients, etc. Toners also act as a delivery system for serums applied afterward, helping them reach deeper into the skin for more efficacy. There’s no need for a new, fancy gadget when toners are a powerhouse product just waiting to be used. 

    Next up, find out how skincare brands are seeking innovation in an oversaturated market.

  • Blog

    Blog

    Recipe Roundup: 8 Scrumptious Salads for Every Season

    by Caitlin H,

    Jan 29, 2024

    Recipe Roundup: 8 Scrumptious Salads for Every Season

    It’s a combination that goes back over a century: salads and healthy eating. Most healthy diets incorporate salads regularly, and most salads are part of a healthy diet.

    And in case you’re among the many people who make the mistake of thinking salads get boring, think again. Salads are delicious year-round, as long as you are open to trying a bit of creativity!

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    Morning Exercise Provides a Host of Benefits

    by Caitlin H,

    Jan 22, 2024

    Morning Exercise Provides a Host of Benefits

    Exercising at any time of day can go a long way toward boosting your physical and mental health. However, a recent study found that people who worked out in the morning, specifically between 7 and 9 a.m. tended to be thinner than those who exercised later in the day.

    Could the time of day you fit in your fitness really make a difference?

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    Being Fit Earlier in Life Means Reduced Cancer Risk Later

    by Caitlin H,

    Jan 15, 2024

    Being Fit Earlier in Life Means Reduced Cancer Risk Later

    Life gets complicated as we age. Our time becomes more limited as the responsibilities pile up, we have kids, we focus on building our careers, you name it.

    The more complicated it becomes, the more challenging it can be to fit in exercise and focus on taking care of our physical health. You may have prioritized fitness, working out at least four or five days a week in your younger years, only to have it fall by the wayside as you age. You know that science says fitness can prevent cancer and other diseases, but it feels nearly impossible to do it consistently.

    If that rings true to you, there may be some good news.

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    The Science on Mindfulness and Weight Loss

    by Caitlin H,

    Jan 8, 2024

    The Science on Mindfulness and Weight Loss

    You’re starting a weight loss journey. You’ve probably researched and read up on how to do it successfully. You’ve thought about the essential things you need to do to meet your goals.

    One thing you may not have even considered is the importance of mindfulness. 

    This journey is about more than just what you eat and how you exercise. Incorporating mindfulness can play a vital role in ensuring your success lasts for life

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    10 Weight Loss Affirmations to Keep You Going Strong

    by Caitlin H,

    Dec 18, 2023

    10 Weight Loss Affirmations to Keep You Going Strong

    When you start out on a journey to lose weight, it can feel daunting. You have to change your eating and drinking habits, get educated, set a timeline, and measure your success along the way. You may even incorporate fitness into the mix, which brings a whole new level of complication. But no matter how difficult the journey seems, it’s always worth it in the end.

    Getting there is challenging, but one very effective way to keep going when the going gets tough is through positive affirmations.

    Need a mantra to keep your mind motivated? Don’t worry, we have some ideas for you! 

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    Tips to Stay on Track While You Travel

    by Caitlin H,

    Dec 11, 2023

    Tips to Stay on Track While You Travel

    The busy holiday traveling season is right around the corner.

    And, if you’re like the millions of Americans who plan on hopping on a plane and heading home for the holidays or on a vacation, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on your weight loss goals.

    It’s not impossible to stay committed to your healthy eating and fitness routine event when your bags are packed and you’re ready to go.

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    7 Realistic, Can-Do Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

    by Caitlin H,

    Dec 4, 2023

    7 Realistic, Can-Do Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

    A quick Google search will yield all sorts of articles sharing all the ways you can stay healthy and keep your diet going strong during the holidays.

    But how realistic are they?

    The truth: not very — at least not if you want to enjoy your time with friends and family without severely restricting yourself (and possibly driving yourself mad).

    With that in mind, we put together a list of seven realistic, can-do tips to enjoy the holiday season with as much healthfulness as possible — but not too much to make it miserable!

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    Top 2 Ways To Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes

    by Caitlin H,

    Nov 27, 2023

    Top 2 Ways To Help Manage Type 2 Diabetes

    If you are living with Type 2 diabetes, there’s a good chance you know how critical a healthy lifestyle is to manage the condition.

    We’d like to talk about two highly effective methods of managing your Type 2 diabetes, and to share information on our award winning Balance Diabetes meal plan.

    We’re here to help!

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    New Research Indicates How Cholesterol Types Impact Heart Disease Risk

    by Caitlin H,

    Nov 20, 2023

    New Research Indicates How Cholesterol Types Impact Heart Disease Risk

    Cholesterol is one of the primary factors analyzed when researching heart disease — HDL (healthy) cholesterol to indicate protection, and LDL (lousy) cholesterol to indicate a higher risk. A recent review of previous studies shows that it’s actually more complex than knowing your numbers.

    People who may be at risk for heart disease should ask their doctors for a blood test measuring for LDL and HDL cholesterol, non–HDL-cholesterol, and cholesterol particle size. By learning your cholesterol details, you can work with your doctor to create a plan to lower your chances of getting the disease.

    But what else can you do to mitigate your risk of getting heart disease?

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    How “Skinny Dave” Lost 45 lbs with Diet-to-Go

    by Caitlin H,

    Nov 13, 2023

    How

    When 56-year-old healthcare administrator David Rockwell went to see his doctor for an annual checkup in May, he knew walking in that he might not get good news. Sure enough, his bloodwork showed he faced many health issues, including high cholesterol and blood sugar. His doctor immediately talked about prescribing him several medications.

    David decided before he settled for a regiment of medications he told his doctor he was going to make a concerted effort to make a major lifestyle change.

    Find out how Diet-to-Go helped him to shed those pounds and improve his quality of life.

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    Treadmill Fails That Are As Hilarious As They Are Alarming

    by Caitlin H,

    Nov 6, 2023

    Treadmill Fails That Are As Hilarious As They Are Alarming

    Ah, the treadmill — this stationary piece of equipment gives fitness enthusiasts the ability to walk or run anytime — rain, snow, or shine.

    But let’s face it. The treadmill can be pretty damn boring. Add in that its functionality clearly baffles some people, and you have a recipe for some hilarious blunders.

    You know you want to see our top 10 Treadmill Fails…

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    10 October Fruits & Veggies with Recipes to Match!

    by Caitlin H,

    Oct 30, 2023

    10 October Fruits & Veggies with Recipes to Match!

    People embrace October for all sorts of reasons — cooler temperatures, the stunning golden, brown, and red fall colors, the comfort of returning to a steady routine after the hustle and bustle of summer, and, of course, the seasonal produce!

    Fall is the peak season for a wide range of fruits and vegetables — affording plenty of opportunities to enjoy the crisp deliciousness raw or as the star in healthy, scrumptious recipes for all meals.

    We thought we would highlight 10 of our favorite fall fruits and veggies (5 fruits and 5 veggies) and throw in a few recipes for each one! Which one will you try to add to your shopping list this week?

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    5 Practical Steps to Keep Loneliness at Bay

    by Caitlin H,

    Oct 23, 2023

    5 Practical Steps to Keep Loneliness at Bay

    If you’ve ever felt lonely, you know how challenging navigating it can be. Many things cause loneliness, including some that you may not even realize are to blame. Reasons could include anything from life events to social media, your personality type to mental health challenges. And it’s important to note that it’s possible to feel lonely not only when you’re along, but when you’re surrounded by family and friends.

    Loneliness is a very powerful emotion that can have detrimental effects on your mental and physical health, including your weight loss journey.

    So what exactly can you do to combat loneliness?

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    Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

    by Caitlin H,

    Oct 16, 2023

    Size 10 Again: Retired Teacher Drops Over 40 Pounds

    When Lara took her retirement trip to Kauai she loved it, but at 200 pounds she felt uncomfortable and was self-conscious.

    “I was mad at myself for being so big during this special thing.”

    That was one catalyst that pushed Lara to make a change. She had tried dieting in the past, but ultimately decided to try Diet-to-Go. And when 55-year-old Lara recently fit comfortably into a pair of size 10 pants she’d held onto for years, it was a powerful moment for her.

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    Examining the Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

    by Caitlin H,

    Oct 9, 2023

    Examining the Link Between Stress and Weight Gain

    Traffic. Work. Groceries. Bills. Stress is a part of life — and most of us face it daily. Thankfully, we tend to be proficient in managing all those common day-to-day stressors.

    But when stress gets overwhelming, it can make maintaining a healthy weight very challenging.

    What exactly is the link between stress and weight gain?

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    Living with Type 2 Diabetes? Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

    by Caitlin H,

    Oct 2, 2023

    Living with Type 2 Diabetes? Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid

    Healthy eating plays a significant role in whether you may develop type 2 diabetes — and a recently published study confirms that.

    According to the study, a considerable rise in people living with type 2 diabetes globally directly results from poor diet. The study demonstrates just how essential it is to improve the quality of your food. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, changing your diet is critical to improving your health.

    So, what should you be eating?

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    How Do the Most Popular Diets Rank for Heart Health?

    by Caitlin H,

    Sep 25, 2023

    How Do the Most Popular Diets Rank for Heart Health?

    Skim any social media feed related to weight loss, and there’s a good chance you’ll see it chock full of everyone from fitness influencers to celebrities touting a diet that helped them shed pounds in record time. Here’s the thing: Many of those diets — such as very-low-fat and very-low-carb — may indeed help you lose weight, but that doesn’t mean they’re good for you.

    What makes a diet heart healthy and where does Diet-to-Go stand in the rankings?

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    Financial Analyst Loses 30 Pounds in Six Months with Diet-to-Go

    by Caitlin H,

    Sep 18, 2023

    Financial Analyst Loses 30 Pounds in Six Months with Diet-to-Go

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    8 Healthy Recipes to Level Up Your Grilling

    by Caitlin H,

    Sep 11, 2023

    8 Healthy Recipes to Level Up Your Grilling

    Summer may be ending, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop using your grill! Cookouts might always make you think of burgers and brats, potato salad, brownies, and lemonade. As delicious as all those things can be, they’re far from the only barbecue options. In fact, you can add variety to your menu by grilling proteins like steak, chicken, pork, and fish — particularly when they star in some delicious, unique, and healthy recipes that everyone will rave about.

    Why don’t you add a new recipe to your cookout grilling menu plan?

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    U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Vegetarian Meal Delivery Service Overall

    by Caitlin H,

    Aug 21, 2023

    U.S. News & World Report Names Diet-to-Go #1 for Best Vegetarian Meal Delivery Service Overall

    Being a vegetarian can definitely mean eating healthier. In fact, studies show that vegetarians tend to eat less saturated fat and cholesterol and enjoy more nutrients, like dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamins C and E.

    But trying to lose weight as a vegetarian can also be challenging, especially if you’re unsure where to begin.

    That’s where we come in. Diet-to-Go’s No. 1 rated Vegetarian Meal Plan has been helping people lose weight for over 30 years. Our dietitian-approved menu delivers restaurant-quality flavors and balanced potions of delicious, chef-crafted meals. And the best part? You just heat and eat.

    Ready to learn more?

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  • The Science on Dieting and Weight Loss

    The Science on Dieting and Weight Loss

    Dieting and “lifestyle programs” can feel so seductive in a culture that tells you your body is wrong and needs to be fixed. But what does the science actually say about dieting for weight loss? Does it work? Is it sustainable? Does it improve our overall health? We’re diving into all of that and more in today’s post.white salad bowl, green apple and measuring tape on wood table with text overlay the science behind dieting and weight loss (from an RD)Content warning: mentions of stigmatizing language around weight used in research, weight loss numbers

    New Year, New Me messaging is rampant at the beginning of the year and with that comes an onslaught of new year’s resolutions and diet companies’ marketing in full force.

    I’ve heard January referred to as “National Dieting Month” because so many diet / wellness / “lifestyle” companies (or whatever they are calling themselves these days) are pervasive this time of year, and many people are especially vulnerable to their marketing messages entering a new year.

    What the $77B diet industry is not telling you is all of the research that shows diets don’t work in the long term. Because their bottom line relies on repeat customers – the same folks trying their program again, and again, and again.

    It’s helpful to know what the scientific literature says about dieting and weight loss but even more important (IMO) than research is YOUR lived experience. Have diets worked for you in the past? How long did they work for? Did you end up eventually gaining the weight back? Have diets / lifestyle programs felt sustainable for you? Why or why not? You know your body best.

    The research on dieting and weight loss

    A 2007 review of the scientific literature on dieting and weight loss by Mann et al. found that only 14 research studies looked at weight loss outcomes 4 years or more out. Meaning that all the other literature on diets and weight loss have very short-term follow-up (typically 1 year). These study designs benefit the diet industry because we know that diets work in the short-term but anywhere from a couple to several years out most people gain the weight back.

    The review found that of the studies they looked at, participants lost anywhere between 10-65 lbs. At follow-up, most of the weight had been regained. Results ranged from a net 15lb loss to a 8lb weight gain from where they started.

    30-64% of participants ended up at or above the weight where they started before the diet.

    Only 9% of participants ended up with a BMI less than 35. And those who lost greater than 15% of their weight actually doubled their risk of mortality.

    A 2018 umbrella review of meta-analyses on weight loss interventions found that there is “no high-quality evidence to recommend treating ‘obesity’ with a specific nonsurgical or non-pharmacological intervention among many available.” AKA we have no good evidence to recommend diet or lifestyle interventions for weight loss.Graphic with quote: "A 2018 umbrella review of meta-analyses on weight loss interventions found that there is "no high-quality evidence to recommend treating "obesity" with a specific nonsurgical or non-pharmacological intervention among many available." AKA we have no good evidence to recommend diet or lifestyle interventions for weight loss."

    Naturalistic studies (where you observe folks in their natural environments and record behaviors) have concluded that dieting is actually a predictor for weight gain. So not only do diets not work but they also predict weight gain. Some meta-analyses and comprehensive reviews have reported the same outcomes – that lifestyle interventions actually lead to weight gain, especially with long-term follow-up.

    Other reviews have shown that 3-5% weight loss is possible for years later if all aspects of treatment are maintained. To give that more context, that would be a weight loss of 6-10 lbs for a 200 lb person. Health benefits of this kind of modest weight loss are not clear. And most people are looking for a 30% weight loss, not 3-5%. 

    Are health risks associated with weight due to weight cycling?

    Studies show that weight cycling (losing weight, gaining it back, rinse and repeat) is a risk factor for diabetes, dyslipidemia, poorer self-perception, insulin resistance, hypertension, and visceral fat.

    A 15 year study showed that the highest mortality rate was in people who lost weight and not in those who gained weight or stayed weight stable. This and other studies shows us that weight cycling may be worse for your health than staying at / maintaining a higher weight.

    What if the health risks we see associated with weight are actually due to the repeated attempts to lose weight and the stress that puts on the body and not the actual size of the body?

    We know that health-promoting behaviors (exercising, eating more fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep) can reduce mortality risk regardless of any weight changes. Yes, that’s right. You can improve your health markers without losing any weight.

    Graphic with quote: "We know that health-promoting behaviors (exercising, eating more fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep) can reduce mortality risk regardless of any weight changes. Yes, that's right. You can improve your health markers without losing any weight."

    It’s also important to consider how weight stigma or anti-fat bias plays a role in the correlational data we see between higher weights and poorer health outcomes. It’s been stated in the literature that “bias may impair efforts to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviors through negative emotional distress and unhealthy eating patterns.”

    It also feels worth noting that all studies on weight and health risks are correlational. And when you learn how to read and analyze research, the one thing that always gets stressed is “correlation does not equal causation.” We cannot say that weight causes chronic disease – there’s no literature that supports that.

    If you look at all the data on smoking / tobacco use and lung cancer and see that there is a correlation between those with yellow stained teeth and lung cancer, you would never say that yellow teeth caused the cancer, you would say that’s a side effect of smoking. Yellow teeth is not a behavior. 

    Just because weight is correlated with chronic disease doesn’t mean it is the cause. Weight is also not a behavior. 

    “Overweight” BMIs have the lowest risk of mortality

    We have been sold the belief that being “overweight” is bad for your health. What we have not heard is that studies show being “overweight” has a lower risk of mortality compared to “normal weight.” A BMI of 30-34.9, referred to in the medical field as “class 1 obesity” has also been shown to not have a higher risk of mortality compared to “normal” weight.Graphic with quote: "We have been sold the belief that being "overweight" is bad for your health. What we have not heard is that studies show being "overweight" has a lower risk of mortality compared to "normal weight." A BMI of 30-34.9, referred to in the medical field as "class 1 obesity" has also been shown to not have a higher risk of mortality compared to "normal" weight."

    Why is no one talking about the protective effect of being “overweight?” Because that wouldn’t bode well for all the pharmaceutical companies selling weight loss medications and the diet industry selling their lifestyle programs. 

    BMI is complete bullshit anyway but I could write another whole blog post on that topic so I’ll save it for another time.

    References:

    Mann, T., Tomiyama, A. J., Westling, E., Lew, A.-M., Samuels, B., & Chatman, J. (2007). Medicare’s search for effective obesity treatments: Diets are not the answer. American Psychologist, 62(3), 220–233. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.62.3.220

     

    Solmi, M., Köhler, C. A., Stubbs, B., Koyanagi, A., Bortolato, B., Monaco, F., … & Carvalho, A. F. (2018). Environmental risk factors and nonpharmacological and nonsurgical interventions for obesity: An umbrella review of meta‐analyses of cohort studies and randomized controlled trials. European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 48(12), e12982.

     

    Lissner, L., Odell, P. M., D’Agostino, R. B., Stokes, J., Kreger, B. E., Belanger, A. J., & Brownell, K. D. (1991). Variability of Body Weight and Health Outcomes in the Framingham Population. New England Journal of Medicine, 324(26), 1839–1844. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM199106273242602

    Tolvanen, L., Ghilotti, F., Adami, H.-O., Ye, W., Bonn, S. E., Bellocco, R., & Lagerros, Y. T. (2023). Prospective study of weight loss and all-cause-, cardiovascular-, and cancer mortality. Scientific Reports, 13(1), 5669. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-32977-8

    Mulligan, A. A., Lentjes, M. A. H., Luben, R. N., Wareham, N. J., & Khaw, K. T. (2018). Weight change and 15 year mortality: results from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer in Norfolk (EPIC-Norfolk) cohort study. European journal of epidemiology, 33(1), 37–53. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10654-017-0343-y

    Flegal, K. M., Kit, B. K., Orpana, H., & Graubard, B. I. (2013). Association of All-Cause Mortality With Overweight and Obesity Using Standard Body Mass Index Categories: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA, 309(1), 71–82. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2012.113905

     

    For more blog posts like this check out:

  • 2-Week Healthy Winter Meal Plan With Grocery List

    2-Week Healthy Winter Meal Plan With Grocery List

    2-Week Healthy Winter Meal Plan With Grocery List – The Real Food Dietitians





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  • What Is Skin Flooding? | Eminence Organic Skin Care

    What Is Skin Flooding? | Eminence Organic Skin Care

    “TikTok told me to” seems to be enough of an excuse to try new beauty trends these days and we’re here for it. The platform has taught us about skin cycling, the ancient art of gua sha, the pros and cons of slugging and how to look like a glazed donut (in a good way), among many other skin care hacks and beauty shortcuts. And while these trends are not all ideal for all skin types or beauty goals, many of them are full of benefits. With over 4.2 million results on TikTok (and counting), skin flooding is one of the newest skin care trends to flood our feeds. Let’s see what it’s all about. 

    What Is Skin Flooding? | How To Perform Skin Flooding | Is Skin Flooding For Everyone?

    What Is Skin Flooding? 

    Skin flooding involves layering moisturizing products in a particular order to provide deeper, longer-lasting hydration. The purpose of the exercise is to quench dehydrated skin, with the help of the star of the show: hyaluronic acid. Essentially we’re loading up the skin with a combination of humectants (aka substances that attract water) and then doubling down on moisturizing serums. The last step is locking everything in, all with the goal of achieving hydrated, plump and glowy skin. This ritual can be done before bed to let it really sink in or in the morning to prep your skin for the day. It involves four simple steps: gently cleansing your skin, spritzing on a mist, applying a serum (or two) and then locking it all in with moisturizer.

    A Guide To Skin Flooding 

    Step 1: A Gentle Cleanse

    For best results, you’ll want to start with a gentle face wash that cleanses your skin without stripping it of natural oils. This will leave a perfect skin canvas, ready to receive the onslaught of moisture coming its way. Some good options for a gentle cleanse include our Stone Crop Gel Wash which cleans away impurities without drying out the skin. As well as the hydrating and nourishing stone crop plant, it contains chamomile, which revitalizes, calms and balances the appearance of skin, prepping it for the tsunami of moisture coming for it. Another great option for this step is the Coconut Milk Cleanser. This gentle cream cleanser uses rich coconut milk, coconut oil and calendula oil to nurture skin for a dewy, fresh finish. 

    Our Lemon Grass Cleanser is another gentle option. The olive oil, sunflower and flax seed in this mild formula gently remove impurities from skin while organic and Biodynamic® herbal ingredients help calm and soothe dry skin. 

    Step 2: Prep The Skin With Moisture 

    Applying skin care products like moisturizers and serums on damp skin is always a good idea. According to Byrdie: “Moisturizers absorb water more effectively with a water source to draw from, so damp skin is more effective in this step.” Keep the skin moist after cleansing or double down by spritzing the face with a face mist, toner or essence. A great option is the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist, which is full of nourishing ingredients, including that stone crop again. Another option we love is the Birch Water Purifying Essence.

    Product Picks

    Award Winning

    Mild cleanser for all skin types

    Stone Crop Hydrating Mist

    Award Winning

    Hydrating and soothing toner

    Step 3: Double Up On Serum

    Now that the skin is ready for the main event, let’s open the floodgates with not one, but two serums! The first one should be heavy on the hyaluronic acid, aka the molecule that attracts and holds water. This moisture magnet is the molecule around which skin flooding was built.

    The Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum is ultra hydrating thanks to our unique Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex that preserves and replenishes moisture in the skin. It also contains other hydrating ingredients like cica and marshmallow root. A thin layer on damp skin will get the flood started. A second layer works too if you want to be extra. More is more when it comes to this routine. 

    Layering another serum on top of the hyaluronic layer(s) is the next step in flooding the skin with moisture. We recommend the potent hydration found in our Stone Crop Serum. If hyaluronic acid is the star of the skin flooding trend, stone crop is a great supporting character for its intense hydrating properties. 

    Step 4: Lock It In With More Moisture 

    Once your serums have absorbed, it’s time to apply a moisturizer to really lock in the hydration. There are a few options that will work for this step. If you’re flooding your skin during the day and hoping for a glass or dolphin skin effect, then your final step can include a moisturizer with SPF. The Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40 adds hydration while it protects. Another really moisturizing SPF is our Radiant Protection SPF Fluid. This all-mineral sunscreen goes on smooth and leaves skin with a dewy look and feel.

    If you’re more into skin flooding as a nighttime ritual, you have a few options. To stay on the hyaluronic acid train, finish up with our Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator. This lightweight gel-cream hydrates and locks in moisture. Our customers love it too. Self-proclaimed skin care junkie, Katie, left a review on our website calling it: “The best skin care product in the universe,” and continuing, “I have tried every product on the market. NOTHING compares to this! … The hydration and glow it gives is equivalent to what you normally need 4 products to do … It’s my absolute favorite step. The glow it gives daily makes you look fresh out of a facial!”

    The Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream is a richer option that adds yet another heavy-handed dose of moisture and locks in the benefits of all the products preceding it. 

    If this trend is reminding you a bit of slugging, you’re in the same wheelhouse. Layering up products and then sealing them in is the basis for both trends. So as a last step, instead of a traditional moisturizer, why not go with the Kombucha Microbiome Leave-On Masque. Melt it in your hands, and evenly roll it over the face. Containing shea butter and beeswax, the mask will act as a coating to lock in hydration and prevent moisture evaporation from the skin. You will wake up with a glow!

    Product Picks

    Award Winning

    Replenishing and hydrating serum

    Is Skin Flooding For Everyone? 

    Like with many viral beauty trends, skin flooding has a target audience. While it’s not irritating and doesn’t involve active ingredients — making it safe for most skin types — it might not be ideal for sensitive skin because it increases product penetration and might just be A LOT. Give it a try but go slow at first. Acne-prone or oily skin might not respond as well as drier skin types because layering multiple moisturizing products could lead to breakouts. That said, the genesis of this idea — applying products to clean, damp skin for maximum absorption — is a takeaway that we can all get behind. 

    Are you ready to give this skin trend a try but not sure where to start? Visit your local Eminence Organics Spa Partner to get started. 

  • Instant Pot Chicken Stew | Kara Lydon

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew | Kara Lydon

    A hearty and comforting one pot meal, this creamy Instant Pot Chicken Stew is made with chicken thighs, carrots, garlic, green beans, and spices like rosemary, thyme and sage.two bowls of Instant Pot Chicken Stew on a white surface beside a kitchen towel with two slices of bread

    Why I Love This Recipe

    A thick savory stew is the perfect meal to cozy up with during the cold winter months.

    This Instant Pot Chicken Stew is comforting, hearty, and satisfying on its own or when paired with a crusty slice of bread. It’s creamy, packed with flavor, and loaded with lots of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, sage, and parsley. 

    Made with chicken thighs for protein, tons of veggies like carrots, celery, green beans and potatoes, and heavy cream for creaminess and a boost to its satiety factor, this stew is a meal the whole family will love.

    I love making this stew in the Instant Pot because it saves time and energy. Set it, and forget it! It tastes as if you’ve been simmering it all day long, when it really only took you less than an hour from start to finish.

    If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can easily make this in the slow cooker or on the stove top. However you make it, you’ll have a one pot meal that’s warm, cozy, nourishing, and delicious. 

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    graphic of ingredients for instant pot chicken stew on marble surface with black text overlay

    Notes on Ingredients

    boneless, skinless chicken thighs: I like using chicken thighs since they’re more flavorful than breasts, but you can use either. You could also make it vegetarian or vegan by substituting the chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils and swapping the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

    butter: aromatic flavor enhancer used to coat the veggies for sautéing.

    yellow onion: adds aromatic flavor. 

    celery: part of the aromatic foundation for the broth. 

    carrots: adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor of the broth.

    garlic: packs in the flavor. 

    white wine: deglazes the pan which maximizes the overall flavor of the stew. 

    baby potatoes: potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C and B6. Feel free to substitute for other potato varieties as needed. 

    dried rosemary: adds a piney, peppery flavor. 

    dried thyme: provides a subtle minty, sweet, and earthy flavor.

    dried sage: provides a full, earthy flavor that is slightly lemony and minty.  

    dried parsley: adds a fresh, bold flavor.

    bay leaf: adds another layer of flavor to compliment the dried herbs.

    salt and pepper: essential flavor enhancers.

    chicken broth: can substitute for vegetable broth but the flavor might be different. 

    frozen cut green beans: green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and calcium. I like using frozen green beans here for added convenience. 

    heavy cream: for creaminess and contributes to the rich flavor. 

    cornstarch: used to thicken the stew. You can swap with flour or arrowroot starch if needed

    Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

    Instant Pot

    How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Stew

    step by step graphic of how to make instant pot chicken stew

    Sear chicken thighs. Heat olive oil on high Sauté setting and once hot, add chicken thighs and sear until browned, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
    Sauté aromatics. Set Instant Pot to normal Sauté and melt butter. Once melted, add onions, celery and carrots and cook until onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, then add wine to deglaze the pan, scraping the bottom as needed. 
    Add ingredients. Turn Sauté off and add chicken back into the pan followed by the potatoes, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Stir ingredients together.
    Cook. Secure cover onto Instant Pot (make sure set to sealing) and set to Pressure Cook for 10 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for 10 minutes before using quick release.
    Shred chicken. Remove chicken from the pot to shred then add it back in. 
    Add heavy cream and green beans. Stir in heavy cream and green beans. Remove bay leaf.
    Make cornstarch slurry and add to pot. Whisk cornstarch and 3 tablespoons water in a small bowl until combined. Add cornstarch slurry to pot, stir to incorporate, and set to Sauté until soup begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Serve hot! 

    Expert Tips

    Be sure to cut the potatoes small enough (think bite-sized pieces) so that they cook all the way through to fork tender.
    Allow heavy cream to come to room temperature before adding to soup to prevent curdling.
    Green beans can be swapped for any frozen vegetable of your choice. Corn, bell peppers, peas, broccoli or cauliflower would all work well.
    If you’re making in the slow cooker:

    Add all ingredients (except olive oil, butter, green beans, heavy cream, and cornstarch) to slow cooker and cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F and potatoes are tender, about 3-4 hours on high and 7-8 hours on low.

    Stir in green beans, heavy cream, and cornstarch slurry to help thicken.

    Recipe FAQs

    Is stew better in the slow cooker or pressure cooker?

    Both definitely work and will taste delicious, so it depends on your preference, which appliance you have, and how much time you have. Pressure cookers are great in a pinch whereas slow cookers run all day. A slow cooker is great for hands off cooking, while a pressure cooker involves a few more steps that require your attention. In terms of overall taste, some people feel that flavor is better retained in a pressure cooker, but again this is subjective. 

    How do you make a stew thicker?

    The key to achieving a thick, creamy stew is creating a cornstarch slurry. I typically mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons water and stir until combined. With the Instant Pot set to Sauté, add the slurry and let the stew come to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, stirring occasionally, about 3-5 minutes. 

    Can other vegetables be added to the stew?

    Why not!? I recommend sticking to frozen veggies here because they require no prep and are super quick to add in at the end. Corn, bell peppers, peas, broccoli or cauliflower would all work well.

    Can you put raw chicken in the Instant Pot?

    Yes, you can put raw chicken in the Instant Pot. The cooking time for chicken varies depending on the size of the breasts/thighs but 8-10 minutes on high should do the trick. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees before you eat it, and if you’re not sure that it’s cooked through, test with a cooking thermometer.

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew served in a white speckled bowl garnished with freshly chopped parsley

    Storage and Preparation 

    Instant Pot Chicken Stew leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat on the stovetop, use a small saucepan and heat over medium-low until reaches desired temperature. To reheat in the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl and reheat for 1-3 minutes, depending on the microwave. 

    Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

    Recipes That Pair Well

    Air Fryer Garlic Bread

    Beet Salad with Feta

    Air Fryer Cauliflower

    Holiday Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Pomegranate

    Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

    Two bowls of Instant Pot Chicken Stew garnished with fresh parsley beside two silver spoons and a kitchen towel

    For more instant pot inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

    Instant Pot 15 Bean Soup

    Instant Pot Sweet and Sour Chicken

    Easy Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili 

    Instant Pot Butternut Squash Risotto

    Instant Pot Guiness Beef Stew

    If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

    Don’t ever miss a recipe! Sign up to receive my monthly newsletter with a round-up of recipes from the previous month and get my FREE guide when you sign up: Rediscover the Joy in Eating: 5 Simple Steps to Stop Stressing Over Food + Enjoy Every Bite

    Print

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    Description

    A hearty and comforting meal, this creamy Instant Pot Chicken Stew is made with chicken thighs, carrots, garlic, green beans, and spices like rosemary, thyme and sage.

    2 tablespoons olive oil
    1.51.75 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
    2 tablespoons butter
    1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
    23 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
    2 carrots, diced (about 1 cup)
    4 cloves garlic, minced
    1/4 cup white wine
    1.5 lbs baby potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
    1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
    1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
    1/4 teaspoon dried sage
    1 teaspoon dried parsley
    1 bay leaf
    1 1/2 teaspoons salt
    1/4 teaspoon pepper
    4 cups chicken broth
    1 1/2 cups frozen cut green beans
    1/2 cup heavy cream
    3 tablespoons cornstarch

    Set Instant Pot to high Sauté and add olive oil. Once oil is hot, add chicken thighs and sear until browned, about 3-4 minutes on each side (chicken should be easy to flip once browned). Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
    Set Instant Pot to normal Sauté. Add butter and once melted, add onions, celery and carrots and cook until onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
    Add wine to deglaze the pan (scrape the bottom of the pan using a spatula or mixing spoon).
    Turn Sauté off / hit Cancel. Add chicken back into the pan followed by the potatoes, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Stir ingredients together.
    Secure cover onto Instant Pot (make sure set to sealing) and set to Pressure Cook for 10 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for 10 minutes before using quick release.
    Remove chicken from pot and shred before adding back to pot.
    Stir in heavy cream and green beans. Remove bay leaf.
    In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 3 tablespoons water until combined. Add cornstarch slurry to pot, stir to incorporate, and set to Sauté until soup begins to thicken, about 3-5 minutes (soup will continue to thicken as it cools).
    Serve hot and with additional salt and / or pepper, to taste.

    Notes

    If you don’t have or like green beans, use a use frozen vegetable of your choice. Corn, bell peppers, peas, broccoli or cauliflower would all work well.
    If you don’t want to use wine, add a little bit of broth to deglaze the pot before adding the rest.
    Allow the heavy cream to come to room temperature before adding it in to prevent curdling.
    Make sure to cut the potatoes small enough (think bite-sized pieces) so they cook to fork-tender.

    To make chicken stew in the slow cooker:

    Add all ingredients (except olive oil, butter, green beans, heavy cream, and cornstarch) to slow cooker and cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F and potatoes are tender, about 3-4 hours on high and 7-8 hours on low.
    Stir in green beans, heavy cream, and cornstarch slurry to help thicken.

    Prep Time: 5 minutesCook Time: 50 minutesCategory: StewMethod: Instant PotCuisine: American

    Keywords: instant pot chicken stew, chicken stew in instant pot

  • Chinese-Inspired Chicken Salad (Mandarin Chicken Salad)

    Chinese-Inspired Chicken Salad (Mandarin Chicken Salad)

    Chinese-Inspired Chicken Salad (Mandarin Chicken Salad) – The Real Food Dietitians





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  • Which Lotions Are Best For Dry Itchy Skin?

    Which Lotions Are Best For Dry Itchy Skin?

    Is the skin on your face and body feeling itchy? This could be an annoying and uncomfortable side effect of winter dryness or something else entirely. Read on to uncover the root cause of your issues and learn about skin care solutions to ease the discomfort you may feel from dry, itchy skin. 

    What Causes Itchy Skin? 

    Figuring out the cause of your itchy skin can be a bit of a scavenger hunt since there are all sorts of possible culprits. Some of these issues are environmental — like seasonal changes (especially in winter), bug bites or irritants like poison ivy — while others are allergic reactions to things like foods or animals. Others still can be blamed on skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. 

    Weather 

    Itchy, dry skin is very commonly caused by weather and environment. In the winter, when the air gets dry and cold, we often exacerbate things by turning up the heat and taking long, hot baths. This combination can do a number on the skin. And it’s not only in the winter. Any seasonal change can disrupt the epidermis and lead to inflammation. A vacation to the arid desert can suddenly rob the skin of moisture, as can hot sun (and sunburns) or other abrupt changes in air temperature and moisture levels.

    Allergies

    Another common issue that can show up on the skin is an allergic reaction. Certain foods and medications, pet dander and fabrics could send your skin into the red zone. It may feel itchy and dry and can also develop hives, rashes or a burning feeling. Other symptoms like swelling of the face or airways can be dangerous and you should consult with your doctor if you’re concerned. 

    Age

    Wisdom comes with age. Unfortunately, so does dry skin. Over time, the skin’s stores of hyaluronic acid diminish as a result of the body’s natural aging processes. This naturally-occurring substance, which attracts and retains moisture, is crucial for keeping skin soft and supple. Without lipids or sebum, dry skin cannot stay lubricated, leading to the skin barrier becoming compromised. Since skin also becomes thinner with age, this can be a recipe for disaster. 

    Other Lifestyle Factors

    Skin that feels or looks dry can also be caused by lifestyle factors. Dehydration can happen when you’re not consuming enough fluids, and this can show up on your face. Everyone is susceptible to dehydrated skin because, unlike dry skin (which is lacking in oil), dehydrated skin (which is lacking in water) is caused by external factors like what you eat and drink. 

    Not enough liquid in your diet can lead to dehydrated skin. This can show up as dark circles under the eyes, flaky patches, dull skin and sensitivity. An unhealthy diet can also lead to dehydrated skin. Fresh fruits and vegetables, plus healthy fats like wild-caught salmon, nuts, avocado, olive oil, eggs and meat from grass-fed animals, can make a big difference. These foods include essential fatty acids and mono and polyunsaturated fats that contribute to both your skin and your overall health.  

    Skin Conditions

    Some common conditions that cause the skin to feel dry and itchy include dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. Dermatitis can exist in many forms and can show up on the skin as dryness, itching, rashes and sometimes swelling. Causes include environmental triggers, stress, hormonal changes and irritation from things like detergents and certain ingredients in beauty products, contact with irritating plants like poison oak, poison ivy and certain grasses.

    Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that includes itchy, scaly rashes. Causes aren’t easy to pin down (many blame irritants that can cause the immune system to overreact). Triggers can include stress, food sensitivities, temperature changes and contact with certain chemicals or preservatives. 

    Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes skin discoloration and irritation in the form of scaly, dry and itchy skin on the hands, feet, neck, scalp and face, among other areas of the body. 

    If you’re concerned that your dry, itchy skin is more than just a reaction to the weather or inherent factors, relying solely on skin care or skin care products may not be the solution. We recommend seeing your doctor for diagnosis and products to help treat these conditions.

    Products To Treat Dry, Itchy Skin 

    If your dry skin is not due to a medical condition, it can still cause discomfort as well as further issues. Dry skin can become irritated, especially when it’s accompanied by itching. Skin on the face and body can become raw and red, and can even crack. This is why it’s important to treat dry skin and to make sure it’s done with the right products. 

    Body

    Since harsh product ingredients trigger dry and itchy skin, it’s important to be aware of what you’re using on and near your body. From laundry detergents to body washes, lotions, facial cleansers and treatments, there are lots of opportunities to make matters worse. At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we’ve always been committed to creating products that contain no harsh chemicals.

    When it comes to the body, removing dry skin with a scrub or exfoliant is the first step. Once the skin is buffed and the top layer removed, it’s much easier for the moisturizing and hydrating products to get absorbed. Our Stone Crop Revitalizing Body Scrub is a great option for full body exfoliation. It uses both natural cane sugar granules and mineral-rich sea salt to exfoliate the skin, plus stone crop for moisture and antioxidants from lemon peel and green tea. 

    Our Coconut Sugar Scrub is another product that uses sugar cane granules to exfoliate and buff the top layers of skin, while coconut oil deeply hydrates and replenishes.

    Once the dead skin has been buffed away, the skin on the body is ready for moisture. The Stone Crop Body Lotion is formulated with stone crop, lemon and bioflavonoids to enrich, support and moisturize the skin’s appearance.

    To combat itchy skin at night, our Monoi Age Corrective Night Body Cream does the trick. This ultra-rich body lotion locks in moisture to reveal firm, velvety looking skin by morning. Lightly fragranced with monoi, this body cream helps alleviate itchiness due to dry skin.

    For something a little more lightweight that is still heavy on the moisture, try our Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Body Lotion. It contains aloe, panthenol and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate, preserve moisture in the skin and protect the skin’s moisture barrier. All of this, plus a delicious scent and creamy feel.

    And finally, if you want to leave it to the professionals and get a good baseline moisture reboot that you can extend at home, a body wrap is a great option. The Mango Enzyme Body Wrap contains active enzymes and vitamins that infuse the skin with hydration and gently exfoliate to leave a refreshed look. You’ll leave the spa with skin that feels smooth and hydrated.  

    Face

    As mentioned, dry, itchy skin on the face can be traced back to a number of causes, but if you’re looking to add moisture and bring the softness, bounce and glow back to your dry complexion, we have some suggestions.

    Before nourishing the skin with a moisturizer, an exfoliating treatment can help remove the top layer of dry, itchy skin and make it easier for your products to absorb. Avoid exfoliating if the skin is irritated or feeling sensitive, but if you’re just a little tight and rough, a gentle exfoliator is a good first step. We love the Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant for this. With its light fizzing action, this revitalizing formula gently invigorates the skin and removes impurities to reveal a beautiful, brighter-looking complexion that’s ready for a dose of hydration. 

    Another treatment that will help get the skin on your face ready to receive the moisture is our Calm Skin Chamomile Exfoliating Peel. It contains chamomile, to balance the look of skin, and lactic acid, which exfoliates and offers intense hydration. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use up to three times a week. 

    Oil-based ointments, creams and lotions that are rich in essential fatty acids can compensate for dry skin’s lack of oil and lipids. They lubricate the skin’s surface as well as fortify the skin’s moisture barrier to replenish and seal in much-needed moisture. “When choosing moisturizer for dry skin, aim for a heavier formula and look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid … ” explains Dr. Hooman Khorasani, a quadruple board-certified dermatologic and cosmetic surgeon in New York City. “Other ingredients to look for include shea butter and lactic acid, which provide hydration and exfoliation.”

    Our Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer includes deeply moisturizing coconut oil and shea butter. Shea butter, in particular, is an excellent emollient for the skin, as it’s high in triglycerides and fatty acids which restore and retain moisture.

    Some other deeply hydrating options include the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator. It contains powerful ingredients like panthenol, which reinforces skin hydration and prevents moisture loss by protecting the skin moisture barrier and our Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex, a unique blend of multi-weight hyaluronic acid and marshmallow root that deeply hydrates and preserves moisture in the skin. The Firm Skin Acai Moisturizer is a nourishing option for aging skin. It contains deeply hydrating shea butter and seabuckthorn berry oil for maximum moisture. 

    If you’re looking to target the neck and face overnight, use the Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream for Face and Neck as it reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles, so you’ll wake up with a more rejuvenated appearance. Customer, Dana C., is a fan, saying in a review on our website: “This cream … is my favorite. First, the texture is so soft and smooth, thick but not too thick, it smells heavenly, goes on and absorbs perfectly and moisturizes so well, my skin is still soft in the morning. I’m almost 60, was a sun worshiper in my youth and have never found a moisturizer that worked well until this one.”

    Facial moisturizer should be applied both morning and night. Applying it on damp skin (after a spritz of a mist or toner or just out of the shower) can help the moisture absorb more efficiently.

    Are you looking to add some hydration to your skin and not sure which products will work best for your unique complexion? Visit your local Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find out how. 

  • Being Fit Earlier in Life Means Reduced Cancer Risk Later

    Being Fit Earlier in Life Means Reduced Cancer Risk Later

    by Caitlin H,

    Jan 15, 2024

    Being Fit Earlier in Life

    Life gets complicated as we age. Our time becomes more limited as the responsibilities pile up, we have kids, we focus on building our careers, you name it.

    The more complicated it becomes, the more challenging it can be to fit in exercise and focus on taking care of our physical health. You may have prioritized fitness, working out at least four or five days a week in your younger years, only to have it fall by the wayside as you age. You know that science says fitness can prevent cancer and other diseases, but it feels nearly impossible to do it consistently.

    If that rings true to you, there may be some good news. A recent study found that being fit earlier in life is associated with a reduced risk of getting nine cancer types later in life.

    The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, was unique in that it analyzed 33 years of data. Researchers followed more than 1 million Swedish men between the ages of 16 and 25 from 1968 to 2005, monitoring their cardiorespiratory fitness, and found that the higher it was when they were young, the more likely they were to see a reduced risk of liver, lung, and esophageal cancer later in life, to name a few.

    That’s strong evidence for the importance of promoting exercise and an active lifestyle among children, teens, and young adults — and it also reiterates how vital it is for adults of all ages to prioritize fitness.
     


    Tips for Getting Daily Exercise


    There’s no time like the present to reincorporate fitness into your daily life. If you have struggled in recent years to fit it into your everyday life, following these tips may help:
     



    If you live within 5 miles of the office, consider getting up earlier and commuting on foot or a bicycle. It’s a simple, straightforward way to fit in 30 minutes (or more) of exercise. As a bonus, it’s good for the environment, too!
     



    Most of us live and die by our calendars, whether for work or our personal lives. Set up and schedule your exercise time or fitness classes just like you would any other important meeting or appointment. This is a foolproof way to ensure you have to get them in.
     



    If you have children at home, create time for you all to play together as a family. Go for a walk or bike ride. Join them when they play virtual reality games. Walk around the building while they’re at their sports practice. Find any way to get moving while they are!
     



    You never know when you might have a free moment to fit in 20 to 30 minutes of exercise. Whether traveling or rushing between appointments and finding yourself with a (shocking!) free window of time, having workout clothes in the car or suitcase will ensure you can take advantage of it!
     



    Exercise is way more fun when you have someone to do it with you. Consider suggesting to a friend or your partner an outing that involves doing something active, such as ice skating, rollerblading, walking, cycling, hiking, or running. The minutes fly by when you have a loved one to share them with!
     



    You’ve probably heard that taking breaks while at work goes a long way toward improving productivity and mental health. Well, the same goes for fitness! Use your breaks (or add more) to fit in a 5-minute “mini workout” where you do some weight lifting or take a few laps around the building. Movement counts no matter when you do it.
     



    It’s tempting to view exercise as a chore, something you have to do but don’t want to. Try to alter your mindset to focus on the positive, what you enjoy about it, or the powerfully good feeling of challenging yourself. When you think about working out as a fun activity, you’re likelier to stick with it.

    Exercising at any time in life can go a long way towards keeping you healthy and whole as you get older. Bring back your younger self by leveraging these tips to revitalize your fitness and make working out a part of your daily routine again!
     

    ————————————————————————————


    Author: Caitlin H
    Diet-to-Go Community Manager

    Caitlin is the Diet-to-Go community manager and an avid runner. She is passionate about engaging with others online and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. She believes moderation is key, and people will have the most weight loss success if they engage in common-sense healthy eating and fitness.

     



    Lifestyle/Wellness

  • Vegan Green Goddess Dressing | Kara Lydon

    Vegan Green Goddess Dressing | Kara Lydon

    A bright and flavorful dressing, this vegan green goddess dressing is made with creamy avocado, fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and apple cider vinegar. Use it as a dip for crudité, salad dressing, spread for sandwiches, or sauce for proteins.Vegan Green Goddess Dressing in serving bowl atop a wooden cutting board along with fresh cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and baby carrots.

    Why I Love This Recipe

    This Vegan Green Goddess Dressing is creamy, bright, herby, and so easy to make.

    Roughly chop the herbs and scallion, juice the lemon, add all the ingredients to a food processor, and you’ll have a flavorful, vibrant dressing in just a few minutes. 

    Traditional Green Goddess Dressing calls for mayo and/or sour cream, and I’ve even seen buttermilk thrown around. I wanted to make a dressing that was creamy and plant-based – and the avocado helps do just that!

    For those with allergies or dietary restrictions / preferences, this dressing is vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free.

    This version is made with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and dill, but you can totally use any herbs you have on hand or prefer. Cilantro, mint, tarragon or chives would all be delicious as well. 

    Vegan Green Goddess Dressing also goes with just about anything. It’s great on nearly any salad, spread onto a sandwich or wrap, drizzled on basically anything savory (like my Vegan Loaded Sweet Potato), and even dipped into with fresh veggies or crackers. 

    I also just love the name of this dressing. I think everyone deserves to feel like a goddess every now and again. I know I feel most like a goddess when I’m listening to my body’s needs, eating lots of nourishing foods, staying uber hydrated, getting enough zzzzz’s, finding ways to stay grounded, and moving my body in ways that feel good.

    Hopefully after trying this dressing, you’ll get your goddess on too. 

    Ingredients You’ll Need

    graphic of ingredients for Vegan Green Goddess Dressing on marble surface with black text overlay.

    Notes on Ingredients

    parsley: brightens the flavor of the dressing.

    basil: provides a subtle sweetness and peppery flavor. 

    dill: slightly lemony, sweet and bitter. 

    scallion: sharp, pungent flavor.

    avocado: makes the dressing creamy and adds a boost of monounsaturated fat

    garlic: deepens the flavor of the dressing.

    lemon: provides some acidity and tanginess. 

    olive oil: adds richness and mellows the lemon and vinegar. 

    apple cider vinegar: adds a bright, tangy flavor. 

    salt: flavor enhancer. 

    Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

    Food Processor

    How to Make Vegan Green Goddess Dressing

    step by step graphic of how to make Vegan Green Goddess Dressing.

    Blend ingredients. Add avocado, garlic, basil, parsley, dill, scallions, salt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and water to the food processor and blend until combined.
    Wipe sides of the processor and add olive oil. Using a spatula, wipe down the sides of the processor/blender. With the blender / processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until incorporated.
    Enjoy! Use as a dip, salad dressing, spread for sandwiches, or sauce for proteins, grain bowls, and loaded sweet potatoes.

    Expert Tips

    I use a food processor to incorporate all of the ingredients together, but if you don’t have one you can also use a high-speed blender. 
    Green Goddess Dressing is very customizable and a great way to use up an abundance of herbs – feel free to use other herbs like cilantro, tarragon and mint.
    Once you’ve added the olive oil with the processor/blender running, feel free to play with the consistency. You can slowly add a little water at a time if you’d like your dressing to be more runny. 

    Recipe FAQs

    What is Green Goddess dressing made of?

    Green Goddess dressing is a creamy dressing that typically contains mayo, sour cream, a mix of fresh green herbs, anchovy, garlic, and lemon juice. In this recipe, I’ve swapped the mayo and sour cream for avocado and replaced the anchovy with bold flavors from scallion and apple cider vinegar. 

    What does Green Goddess dressing taste like?

    Green Goddess dressing tastes bright, herby, and refreshing. This version is made creamy thanks to the avocado and is slightly tangy. It has a robust flavor profile and the specific flavors can vary depending on the herbs and other ingredients used. 

    What is Green Goddess dressing good on?

    Green Goddess dressing is incredibly versatile and truly pairs well with so many things. Of course it is great on nearly any salad, but it can also be used as spread for sandwiches, dip for veggies and crackers, or a sauce for proteins, grain bowls, and loaded sweet potatoes. 

    close up image of vibrant Vegan Green Goddess Dressing in serving bowl.

    Storage and Preparation

    Vegan Green Goddess Dressing leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

    Recipes That Pair Well

    Ancient Grains Bowl

    Vegan Loaded Sweet Potato

    Air Fryer Whole Chicken

    Air Fryer Salmon (Fresh or Frozen)

    Charred Asparagus Salad with Egg

    Vegan Green Goddess Dressing in serving bowl with wooden spoon on top of wooden cutting board and next to fresh veggies for dipping.

    For more dressing/sauce inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

    Garlic Scape Pesto

    Grilled Summer Vegetables with Romesco Sauce

    Kohlrabi Fritters with Herb Yogurt Sauce

    Naturally Sweetened Cranberry Sauce

    Shrimp and Veggie Kabobs with Wild Blueberry Barbeque Sauce

    If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below. If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

    Don’t ever miss a recipe! Sign up to receive my monthly newsletter with a round-up of recipes from the previous month and get my FREE guide when you sign up: Rediscover the Joy in Eating: 5 Simple Steps to Stop Stressing Over Food + Enjoy Every Bite

    This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious (and most beautiful) dish! The original post was published October 2014. 

    Print

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    Description

    A bright and flavorful dressing, this vegan green goddess dressing is made with creamy avocado, fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and apple cider vinegar. Use it as a dip for crudité, salad dressing, spread for sandwiches, or sauce for proteins.

    1 1/2 small – medium avocados or 1 large avocado
    1 garlic clove
    3/4 cup packed basil leaves
    1/4 cup packed parsley
    1/4 cup dill
    12 scallions (light and dark green parts only), chopped (about 3 tablespoons)
    1 teaspoon salt
    Juice of 1 medium lemon (34 tablespoons)
    2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
    1/3 cup water
    1/4 cup olive oil

    In a food processor or high-speed blender, blend together avocado, garlic, basil, parsley, dill, scallions, salt, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and water until combined.
    Using a spatula, wipe down the sides of the processor/blender. With the blender / processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until incorporated.
    Use as a dip, salad dressing, spread for sandwiches, or sauce for proteins, grain bowls, and loaded sweet potatoes.

    Notes

    You can customize with any fresh herbs you have on hand. Tarragon, cilantro, mint, and chives would all work well.

    Prep Time: 10 minutesCategory: DressingMethod: Food Processor

    Keywords: vegan green goddess dressing, green goddess dressing, green goddess dressing with avocado

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